US Bans Export of Lithium-Ion Battery Scrap to Keep Recycled Materials for Domestic Use

The US announced restrictions on exporting recovered materials, including recycled lithium-ion battery scrap, under new rules aimed at protecting critical supply chains. The measure comes after a presidential directive that allows the Department of Commerce to limit exports of “recoverable critical minerals and materials,” including materials reclaimed from industrial waste and end-of-life products. Reports say authorities will require suppliers of battery-related waste such as “black mass” to sell domestically, with possible exemptions.